Day Two The Woman Who Loved Much I have always loved the story of the woman offering her best perfume, her tears, her whole heart in worship to Jesus in that room full of Pharisees. I am a woman who has been on both sides of the table--the one condemning and the one loving. Luke … Read More
“The King of Glory Comes” (First Easter Devotional)
DAY ONE The King of Glory Comes! Today I'm sharing with you our first devotional from the Easter Project. The kids and I sat down this week and read Matthew 21 and Luke 19: 28-40. {You can also find the story of the "Triumphant Entry" in many children's Bibles. Our favorite is The Child's … Read More
The Easter Project Begins! (Six Free Devotionals for your Easter Experience)
LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN! Easter is coming. April 1st. Just as we headed on a journey to the manger at Christmas time, this month we will be headed on a journey to the empty tomb as we celebrate the life and hope we have through Jesus. As you know, we are passionate about making the focus of … Read More
Using the Jesse Tree to Share the Gospel
It's so easy to get caught up in all the details that sometimes you miss the BIG picture. I am guilty of diving into the excitement and anticipation of the Jesse Tree but often forgetting the ONE THING that is most important. THE GOSPEL. We tell lots of Bible stories around our house … Read More
What’s in the Sacks?
First impressions can make quite an impact. When introducing the Jesse Tree, we wanted our children to LOVE it, and want to do more. Most nights we cuddle up on the couch in our jammies, turn the Christmas tree lights on, and listen to Daddy read the story. On special nights, we might add … Read More
Meet the New “Leader” of Leaders!
Our Jesse Tree family is growing... Hello Jesse Tree friends! I want to introduce you to my sweet friend Kasie and her adorable family (husband Adam, son Cale, and daughter Libby). I have "officially" invited Kasie to join me in this ministry and you are in for a real treat! God continues to … Read More
Planning a Luke 2:52 Summer
[A special thank you to Terri Conlin, a sweet mentor, who shared this verse with me in regard to what she did with her children when they were little. You inspired words and direction for all the thoughts I was having!] Summer is upon us and I find myself both relieved and a bit anxious. I … Read More
How I Have Come to Celebrate What Used to be a Burden
I grew up participating in Lent. My parents never "made me" give up anything for Lent. They told me what they were going to give up, and encouraged me to think about giving something up too. We ate fish or pancakes on Friday nights, and on Good Friday we fasted until dinner … Read More
Follow the Star (and a GIVEAWAY!!!)
When your ministry revolves around Christmas, it's pretty rare to find someone who understands your passion, much less shares it. That's why in July, while at a blogging conference, I made a bee line to Star from Afar's vendor table. That's how I met Natalie, a mom just like you and me who loves … Read More
And the Gift Goes on
Four years ago, a friend called me after the holidays. She wanted to know if I had any extra ornaments from our recent Jesse Tree ornament exchange. She had a friend who needed them. "She was diagnosed with breast cancer. It is serious. She wants to do the Jesse Tree with her … Read More